The Pittsburgh Steelers, before Wednesday, had officially retired only one jersey number. No player was more worthy of joining that exclusive club than Joe Greene.

The Steelers announced that Greene, the dominant defensive tackle and anchor of their "Steel Curtain" Super Bowl dynasty in the 1970s, will have his No. 75 put to rest in a ceremony during the 2014 NFL season.

Even for a franchise with such a rich tradition, there's little doubt that Mean Joe is the best Steeler ever. The 10-time Pro Bowler and 5-time first-team All-Pro played all 13 of his terrific NFL seasons in Pittsburgh. After wearing No. 72 as a rookie, he took over his more recognizable number in Year 2.

“Joe was the cornerstone of the Steel Curtain,” Dan Rooney told reporters. "This isn’t something you can do for everyone. He was a catalyst and to retire his number is something we feel is a special thing. I am so happy we are honoring Joe this way.”

Greene's nickname was appropriate on the field, as the 6-4, 275-pounder was a menace to quarterbacks and running backs alike. It also was tied to his alma mater, the University of North Texas Mean Green.

But his most famous moment off the field—which made him a national celebrity with non-football fans—came in 1979. He showed everyone his nicer side (and winning smile) with a classic Coca-Cola commercial.

Before Greene, defensive tackle Ernie Stautner was the only other Steeler with his number retired. Dan Rooney said there are no plans to give Stautner and Greene company in the near future, although nine other former Steelers unofficially no longer have their numbers issued. Greene, 67, will be honored during the Steelers' Nov. 9 Sunday night home game against the rival Baltimore Ravens.

A matchup featuring two physical, hardnosed defensive-minded teams that hate each other? Nothing could be better for Greene.